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Runge Nature Center

Runge Nature Center
330 Commerce Drive
573-526-5544

This 100-acre area in Jefferson City features a visitor center with exhibits and live-animal displays, special events, trails, demonstrations, and diverse natural habitats.

At the Runge Conservation Nature Center, come and enjoy the wonders of Missouri's habitats and the fish, forest and wildlife resources found in the Show-Me State. Get acquainted with beauty as we travel from the rugged prairies of the north to the swamplands of the Bootheel.

Facility and exhibits

  • 200-seat auditorium, three classrooms, and indoor wildlife-viewing area, library, and 3,000 square feet of exciting exhibits
  • All indoor facilities are disabled-accessible
  • Pull-through bus and RV parking

Upcoming Events at Runge Nature Center

Hunting Series: After You Harvest (Deer)

Thursday, Nov 7, 2024 from 5:30pm to 7:30pm
Jefferson City, MO
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Hunting Series: Hide To Rawhide

Thursday, Dec 5, 2024 from 5:30pm to 7:30pm
Jefferson City, MO
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Hunting Series: Recipes

Thursday, Dec 19, 2024 from 5:30pm to 7:30pm
Jefferson City, MO
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Recent News

Celebrate the Holiday Season at Runge Conservation Nature Center on December 27 - 29, 2023

All ages are invited to the nature center’s Holiday Happenings 3-day event. Jefferson City, MO – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites the public to celebrate the holidays at Runge Conservation Nature Center with…

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MDC Invites Novice Hunters to a Year-Long Hunting Series in Jefferson City

This free series will expose participants to various methods of hunting in Missouri. JEFFERSON CITY, MO – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites novice hunters to a year-long hunting series focused on deer, turkey, and…

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Enjoy an Outdoor Movie Night at Runge Nature Center on May 19, 2023

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites outdoor enthusiasts for a movie under the stars May 19 from 8-9:30 p.m. at Runge Nature Center in Jefferson City. End the work week by exploring the Runge Nature…

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MDC Invites the Public to Dive Into Nature Through Reading at ‘Into the Words’ at Runge Nature Center on February 4, 2023

This book discussion series is for all readers and nature lovers ages 16 and older. Jefferson City, MO – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites readers and nature fanatics to “Into the Words”, a book discussion…

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MDC Invites the Public to Learn About Owls at Runge Nature Center on January 20, 2023

Participants will learn about owls before observing owls in their natural habitat. JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites the public to learn about owls at Runge Nature Center from 6:00-8:30 p.m. …

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MDC Invites the Public to an Eagle Adventure on Jan. 28, 2023

Participants will have the opportunity to view live eagles in programs and in their natural habitat. JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites the public to learn about eagles at Runge Nature…

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Learn Fishing Skills with MDC’s Free Fly-Tying Classes in Jefferson City

MDC staff will guide participants through the skill of fly-tying JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites the public to spend a few relaxing hours with MDC staff learning the art of fly-tying. Many…

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MDC Runge Nature Center Hosts Holiday Celebrations from December 28-30, 2022

Participants can experience a host of holiday-themed activities all three days. Jefferson City, Mo -- The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites the public to celebrate the holidays at Runge Nature Center in Jefferson City. Staff will…

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MDC Hosts Free Cedar Wreath Making Event on Dec. 20 at Runge Nature Center

Participants will be able to take their wreath home just in time for the holidays. JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites the public to celebrate the holidays and help Runge Nature Center make use of…

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MDC Offers Free Nest Box Building Event in Jefferson City on December 17, 2022

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites participants ages 7-12 years old to give back to nature through creating a nest box for winter birds around their home. This event will run from 10-11:30 a.m. at Runge Nature Center in Jefferson…

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MDC Offers Free Bird Identification Event at Runge Nature Center on December 16, 2022

Participants will be treated to a warm cup of coffee or tea while learning about Missouri’s birds. Jefferson City, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites the public to start their morning with an MDC naturalist to…

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